Question Number: 29811

Law 4 - Players Equipment 10/12/2015

RE: Junior Varsity High School

Matthew Palmer of Simsbury, Connecticut United States asks...

Hello, I'm from Connecticut and I want to buy a pair of SG (soft ground) cleats to play for my high school team. Will I be allowed to wear them during league games? I understand some people put in different studs, but do not know the rules for this. Thank you!

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Matthew,
soccer cleats are universal in their application and the changing studs allow for different turfs , hard soft even artificial. A referee just ensures they are safe i.e. points of studs are not razor sharp. The completion authorities or leagues MIGHT have a stud ban on artificial turf fields but that is something only a call to the association you play under would know. I think you will be fine! Mind you few care what I think! ;0)
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Shoe manufacturers are not going to spend tons of money to develop, manufacture, distribute and promote a shoe design that is not legal for people to use. So if something is marketed as a soccer shoe, you're probably good to go. But some local rules may make exceptions, particularly for younger age teams for safety reasons. Your coach would be the best person to ask if something is restricted in your area for high school games. If s/he doesn't know, then ask the athletic director.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi
I am not aware of any cleated soccer shoes that are illegal. Now some artificial turf facilities do not allow cleats due to the damage they do to the surface. Other than that a pair of soccer cleats bought in a store will satisfy. I might add that the only concerns referees will have is if the cleats get damaged through inappropriate wear or that cleats from other sports that are not legal are worn. Ultimately it is the referee who decides on the day along with any facility rules.
Do not worry about cleat changes. It is only of concern at the pro level taking account of different ground conditions. Even at that most pros just go with moulded for firm dry ground and regular length cleats for soft wet ground. Some go to the expenses of varying length cleats and combination soles yet that is not required or of concern for 99.9999 of players